Balance and gait in multiple sclerosis: linking motion data to function
Official title: "Functional Assessment of Balance and Gait and Correlation With Kinetic and Kinematic Parameters in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: Cross-Sectional Study"
Run by University of Patras · NCT07630311 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers will see if precise motion measurements of balance and walking relate to everyday functional tests in adults with MS.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Patras Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Ioannina and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 1, 2025 |
| Main results expected | February 28, 2026 |
| Study ends | August 30, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | June 24, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07630311 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults with MS, able to walk independently without assistive devices, EDSS < 6, without major orthopedic or other neurological conditions affecting mobility.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with higher disability (EDSS ≥ 6), significant balance risk, or conditions affecting gait may not benefit from the findings.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This cross-sectional observational study analyzes how three-dimensional motion capture data of balance and gait relate to clinical tests of balance, gait, and physical performance in people with multiple sclerosis. Participants undergo a single lab session with Vicon motion capture, functional assessments, questionnaires on fear of falling and fatigue, and a lower-limb spasticity evaluation. The goal is to identify which biomechanical parameters best reflect real-world mobility and performance, informing rehabilitation approaches. Recruitment targets adults with MS who can walk without devices and have EDSS scores below 6. The study is conducted by the University of Patras and University Hospital Ioannina and involves multiple affiliated departments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the study could help clinicians select objective biomechanical measures to guide rehabilitation in MS.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work using motion analysis has shown meaningful links between biomechanics and functional outcomes in MS, but the precise associations remain to be clarified.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults (≥ 18 years) with confirmed diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis * Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score \<6 * Ability to ambulate independently without the use of assistive devices * Absence of significant orthopedic or neurological conditions affecting mobility * Ability to understand and follow verbal instructions. Exclusion Criteria: * History of injury or surgical intervention to the lower limbs or spine within the past year * Any musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiovascular, or other medical condition, other than Multiple Sclerosis, that may significantly affect gait or balance or compromise participant safety during testing. * Severe balance impairment or high risk of falling that prevents safe participation in single-leg stance, gait analysis, or obstacle negotiation tasks.
Where it's running
-
Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation/Department of Surgery, University of Ioannina Medical School
Ioannina, Greece Recruiting -
Department of Physiotherapy of the School of Health Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Patras
Pátrai, Greece Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Sofia Lampropoulou, PT, MSc, PhD — Department of Physiotherapy, University of Patras
- Study coordinator: Eirini Papakosta, PT, MSc cand.
- Email: up1075912@ac.upatras.gr
- Phone: +30 6972355224
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.